Jazan border guards thwart the smuggling of 90 kilograms of qat

Saudi boarder guards (AFP)
Short Url
Updated 22 December 2023
Follow

Jazan border guards thwart the smuggling of 90 kilograms of qat

  • Qat is a flowering shrub native to the Arabian Peninsula

JAZAN: Saudi border guards in Jazan region foiled an attempt to smuggle 90 kilograms of the narcotic qat, and arrested 6 Ethiopian nationals.


The seized narcotics were handed over to the competent authority, and preliminary legal procedures were completed, state news agency SPA reported.


Qat is a flowering shrub native to the Arabian Peninsula. Individuals chew qat leaves for its stimulant effects, which are less intense than those caused by abusing cocaine or methamphetamine.


The Saudi government has urged anyone with information related to suspected smuggling operations or customs violations to call the confidential hotline 1910, the international number 00 966 114208417, or email [email protected].


Tips received by the authority related to smuggling crimes and breaches of common customs law are treated with strict confidentiality. Financial rewards are offered for valid tips.

 

The Kingdom vs Captagon
Inside Saudi Arabia's war against the drug destroying lives across the Arab world

Enter


keywords

Taif festival celebrates Saudi Arabia’s literary icons

Updated 11 January 2026
Follow

Taif festival celebrates Saudi Arabia’s literary icons

  • It introduces visitors to the contributions of literary pioneers through accessible visual and narrative content

TAIF: A special section highlighting key Saudi literary figures forms part of the Writers and Readers Festival in Taif.

The area explores the lives of distinguished writers, poets, and authors who have shaped the Kingdom’s creative landscape, influencing literature, journalism, theater and intellectual thought.

It introduces visitors to the contributions of literary pioneers through accessible visual and narrative content, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Sunday.

Organized by the Literature, Publishing and Translation Commission, the festival runs until Jan. 15 and features 42 prominent publishing houses from Saudi Arabia and overseas, offering visitors the chance to explore the latest works in literature, philosophy and general knowledge.

Meanwhile, the festival’s interactive murals section engages visitors with openwork art panels, allowing them to contribute to the city’s features and identity.

The murals depict Taif’s natural and historical landmarks, including Al-Hada Mountain, the Taif rose gardens, and traditional Hijazi palaces. Others are inspired by Souq Okaz, a historic literary and commercial center linked to the region’s poetic heritage.

Designed by a visual artist, they blend folk-inspired elements with imaginative expression, creating a collaborative experience that celebrates the city’s beauty and brings art closer to the public.